Reviews

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Books that are emotionally engaging, passionately crafted, and infused with hope.

Home – Kirkus Reviews

Deeply felt; explores the complexities of human relationships, illness, and the ability to change.

Kirkus

Winter’s Invitation – Anne Sitarz

You’re poems take my breath away. The theme of quiet is powerful and one that I’d resonated with on a deep, deep level, my soul savors the words and images and smiles with understanding. I was struck by the message of your poems with how much I could have a far-reaching effect in my everyday life–not only as a therapist. My thanks for getting me in touch with that. It adds a different dimension to my everyday chore-oriented life. How wonderful that you have the gift of poetry. Thank you for enriching me with your gift.

Anne Sitarz Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist

Winter’s Invitation – Janet Ferrell

Each year I look forward to the first day of the last month, for on that day I start reading, one each day, the poems of Winter’s Invitation, and that is always be a new beginning. I learned from your poems that December is a lovely month. It carries us to the climax of the year to celebrate, to review, and to practice rituals that strengthen our souls. December renews and fills us with hope for the New Year. Your 31 poems are a daily guide to spiritual awareness. Thank you!

Janet Ferrell Freelance Writer

Winter’s Invitation – Glenn Humphries

I read your precious poetry when I need to re-connect. Your Christmas poetry is so beautiful. I keep it on my desk or somewhere close and read and sit with it frequently. Perhaps the Gift-Giver has smiled on me and that is where my words are again coming from…. The Gift-Giver speaks—bestows blessing. True wisdom, true blessing, and true life. Thank you for the wonderful poetry. I sit and read it over and over.

Glenn Humphries Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist/Franciscan Brother

Winter’s Invitation – Carolyn Williams

You’re poetry is beautiful. You’re at the heart and soul of the universe and have expressed it, as few are able to do so. Thank you so very much for sending me a copy of “A Winter Legend”. I believe that I will frame this and hang it on a wall or that I can read it to remind me that burdens, real or imagined, old or recent, can be dropped, lesson can be learned. Wisdom to feel, to sense, to know when to discard the burden–give the body, the brain, the emotions, a rest. Keep a ‘twig’ to carry to perhaps remind not to become callous/unfeeling, perhaps to also remind life may bring other burden twigs and the bundle may well become heavy again and again as we travel the road of life.

Carolyn Williams Retired Executive Secretary

Winter’s Invitation – Lane Leckman

Thank you for writing Winter’s Legend. I have a feeling that each time I read it I will get more from it. Burdens I can relate to-holding on and letting go.

Lane Leckman MD, Psychiatrist

Winter’s Invitation – Carol Faturik

“Magic” that you put on paper called “Epiphanies. Your words are so beautiful.

Carol Faturik Book Club Coordinator

Winter’s Invitation – Grace Colvin

The poem, epiphanies, is beautiful and has a calming, peaceful and soothing effect which is very welcome. I what to take lines out of it and write them all around my kitchen.

Grace Colvin

Winter’s Invitation – Rev. Kathleen Fannin

Thanks so very much for sharing “Epiphanies with me. Not only is it beautiful, it carries a profound message of hope–that we CAN create the world anew.

Rev. Kathleen Fannin

Winter’s Invitation – Mike Linver, MD

Thanks so very much for sharing “Epiphanies with me. Not only is it beautiful, it carries a profound message of hope–that we CAN create the world anew.

Mike Linver, MD

Weather’s Store – Richard Sei, DDS

Thank you for all the candles you have lit along our way. Every year our Christmas Season is made full by your beautiful and profound writing.

Richard Sei, DDS

Weaving the Wind – Camille-Yvette Welsch

The wind serves as a controlling metaphor in this collection, moving through the human landscape, bringing change. The stars also serve as a powerful metaphor for the interconnectedness of human beings with both the environment and each other.

In a powerful poem about language and power, the poet tells the story of walking with a small child who wonders at the wind, seeking the right word for it. She writes, “Oblivious now to what had enchanted him / Moments before I gave him that word. / The word that bound up senses and wonder and magic / Dismissing them into knowing.” Giomi has a deft touch for expressing this awe and curiosity, and for acknowledging the ways people don’t let these feelings into their daily lives. If the book has one clear message, it is to appreciate the world and those within it.

For people working through an illness, or for their caregivers, this volume offers an empathetic voice. Many will recognize their own reactions and suffering, and they will be inspired by Giomi’s efforts to transcend circumstances and find wonder in her world.

Camille-Yvette Welsch Foreward Clarion

Weaving the Wind – Peace, Hilda Wales

I wanted to let you know that I bought your book “Weaving the Wind,” and read it through. It is a very beautiful and creative book and I thank you. It makes me want to know you better! Again, thanks for writing that book. I hope to read others that you created. What I d know is when you found time to write books! With your busy life!

Hilda Wales New Mexico State Poetry Society

Weaving the Wind – Linda L. Spalding

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your manuscript. I savored it over the past week. The story itself, and the “spirit” of it brought up so many emotions and ponderings that I have recently been trying to pin down on a personal level. I’m not even sure how to articulate it, except that I feel a deep need to dig down into myself to see what really makes me tick. Through my mother’s side of the family, I know I have ancient ties with Spanish/Mexican/Native American cultures, but I have lost those connections, although my interest and curiosity in the mystical aspects of those cultures is still strong. Jessie’s experiences (the searching, the frustrations, the longing for something elusive, realizations and revelations) tugged at me as I journeyed with her. I wanted to jump in my car and drive until I found Weather’s Store. I was ready – even for the pain and suffering and loneliness – that must come with self- discovery. I want to experience that apocalyptic storm of awareness!

Your writing style is sort of poetic prose – fluid and tangible, chewy and gritty to the point of being sensual. I could see, smell, hear, and feel the wind, the rain, the moods, everything. I know I learned some lessons about metaphoric style. I’d really like to be able to do that. I admire your exquisite use of language. Now I’m eager to read your poetry and other work and I do hope you will pursue publishing.

Let me know if we can meet again sometime and talk about the writer’s support group or just life in general.

Linda L. Spalding Walking Home on the Camino de Santiago

Weaving the Wind – Camille-Yvette Welsch

Like so many authors, Giomi finds inspiration in nature-its cycles, its perseverance, its uncanny way of illuminating the human spirit through metaphor. The wind serves as a controlling metaphor in this collection, moving through the human landscape, bringing change. The stars also serve as a powerful metaphor for the interconnectedness of human beings with both the environment and each other.

In a powerful poem about language and power, the poet tells the story of walking with a small child who wonders at the wind, seeking the right word for it. She writes, “Oblivious now to what had enchanted him / Moments before I gave him that word. / The word that bound up senses and wonder and magic / Dismissing them into knowing.” Giomi has a deft touch for expressing this awe and curiosity, and for acknowledging the ways people don’t let these feelings into their daily lives. If the book has one clear message, it is to appreciate the world and those within it. For people working through an illness, or for their caregivers, this volume offers an empathetic voice. Many will recognize their own reactions and suffering, and they will be inspired by Giomi’s efforts to transcend circumstances and find wonder in her world.

Camille-Yvette Welsch ForeWord Clarion Reviews

Winter’s Invitation – Ben Gleason

Your work seems quite inspired!

Ben Gleason Assistant Editor, Shambhala Publications, Inc.

Winter’s Invitation – Francesca Broward

What lovely poetry! It inspired me and I am setting up a Christmas tree which I had no intention to do until your poem arrived. Thanks for reminding me of the importance of rituals.

Francesca Broward Concert Pianist

Winter’s Invitation – Wilma Green

What a wonderful world this could be if only a few more people could look at Christmas, and other times of the year, with the thoughts and feeling you put in your poetry.

Wilma Green

Weather’s Store – Kirkus

Striking novel about a woman who is drawn to an enigmatic store through which she begins a spiritual journey involving beings from ancient and traditional cultures inhabiting the raw landscape.

Feeling disconnected from her life, a woman named Jessie stumbles on a “bone-white” store by the lakeshore in northern New Mexico. A heavy wrought-iron sign reads “Weather’s Store,” and the place gives Jessie the sensation of an old dream. From there, she meets the mysterious, green-eyed Weather and is introduced to a host of characters, including frightening Indian witches; Maya, a weaver and healer; surreal, powerful women spirits; Azteca Marta, an herbalist; Marta’s son Mateo, the blended soul of New Mexico; old Juan Antonio; and a heartbreaking, hopeless Indian adolescent. Alternately frustrated, confused, awed and intrigued, Jessie comes to a deeper understanding and acceptance of her destiny through these mystical mentors and guides. Unlike traditional novels, Giomi’s work presents a series of parables and haikus utilizing the land, cultures and people of New Mexico, to which the author, a native of the same region, feels a deep connection. These fragments can have elegance and depth, such as when homemade crosses marking death are equated to “resting places…reminders to stop and remember and, then with infinite patience, to bless what must be left behind.” Giomi doesn’t romanticize the primitivism and poverty of this part of the world while recognizing its power, beauty and sacred quality and respecting its wisdom. She touches on the tragic alcoholism prevalent among Native Americans, particularly youth, who are “trapped between two worlds” and often die young of alcohol abuse, homicide, suicide and despair. Her background as a psychologist occasionally reflects in the “work” Jessie is encouraged to do (“To embark on any journey…you must confront what is hiding in the darkness” or “admit the wound”), but the ultimate journey is metaphysical, a reclamation of the soul. Weather is represented literally by rain, winds and snow and becomes a metaphor for the tempests of the human spirit.

One woman’s search for self in New Mexico achieves an abstract, meditative beauty.

Kirkus

Weather’s Store – Micah Andre

“Weather’s Store” is an original and much recommended pick for fiction collections with a spiritual twist.

– Micah Andre The Midwest Book Review

Weather’s Store – Julieann Cribari

What a wonderful journey! Thelma Giomi transported me to the wild and magic landscapes of Northern New Mexico

Julieann Cribari

Weather’s Store – Linda Spalding

Jessie’s experiences (the searching, the frustrations, the longing for something elusive, realizations and revelations) tugged at me as I journeyed with her. I wanted to jump in my car and drive until I found Weather’s Store. I want to experience that apocalyptic storm of awareness! Your writing style is poetic prose – fluid and tangible, chewy and gritty to the point of being sensual. I could see, smell, hear, and feel the wind, the rain, the moods, everything. I admire your exquisite use of language. Now I’m eager to read your poetry.

Linda Spalding

Weather’s Store – Brian Machemehl

I really enjoyed this fantastic story about a woman coming to understand herself and her place in the world. The main character is filled with self-doubt and has lost her love for living. She feels compelled to leave everything behind her, and seeks wisdom from a very interesting and imaginative cast of characters in Northern New Mexico. The visual imagery is rich, and takes you on a fantastic journey filled with witches, a curandera , and a slew of other characters that all play a role in Jessie’s transformation. It is a delightful distraction, and deals with issues most everyone can relate to.
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Brian Machemehl

Weather’s Store – Hemplhiller

Wow, what a remarkable, meditative novel. Jess, the central figure in this book explores the unique traditions, spiritual healing and ancient ceremonies of current day, northern New Mexico. Her quest to find personal meaning in her life, takes her full circle. A thought provoking read!!

Hemplhiller

Weather’s Store – Craig Machemehl

Fantastic Journey
What a wonderful and detailed journey of self realization through the spiritual, cultural and scenic wonders of New Mexico. Chapter after chapter I was transported to many of my favorite places, and the interesting and realistic characters make the story come alive. I could feel the crisp air and see the beautiful valley as I read with growing anticipation of the lessons to be learned. This book is a must read for anyone seeking self awareness or for those just seeking a great story with beautiful imagery. Well done!

Craig Machemehl

Home – Phillip Herndon

Shatter My Heart should be titled Capture My Heart. I found as I read this new work of Thelma’s, my heart was captured, and I wanted to read more and more. The situation is intriguing and the characters are captivating. I found that I wanted to know these people and discover how they worked through their issues. Definitely a good read.

Phillip Herndon

Home – Sally Davis

The author’s ability to use descriptive phrases shines through this book and gives the reader effortless insight into the four main characters, which is one of the strongest points of the novel.

Sally Davis

Home – Southwest Writers Workshop

Skillful and poignant writing with a compelling premise.

Southwest Writers Workshop

HOME – Joan Marie Moss

This is a compelling story of the challenges faced by four exceptional people who won my admiration and friendship. There are few books that I would re-read. This is one. It’s compassionately told with outstanding attention to detail.

Joan-Marie Moss

Shatter My Heart Summer Reading

What a great summer read-very absorbing(and informative). It is clear to me that you are a real Wordsmith at both poetry and prose...a literary gift.

Doris

Weaving the Wind

People write for many reasons: therapy, artmaking, community. Thelma Giomi's poems originate, in some ways, from all of these impulses. Being diagnosed with lupus, a painful autoimmune disease, meant that, for much of her life, Giomi needed to find a way to face each day with hope. Poetry, her family, and her love of the New Mexico landscape have helped her along the way.

Giomi, who holds a PhD in clinical and developmental psychology, is the author of three novels and three volumes of poetry. Like so many authors, Giomi finds inspiration in nature—its cycles, its perseverance, its uncanny way of illuminating the human spirit through metaphor. The wind serves as a controlling metaphor in this collection, moving through the human landscape, bringing change. The stars also serve as a powerful metaphor for the interconnectedness of human beings with both the environment and each other.

In "Si La Va Va" the poet writes "They've lived the words that are in my bones, / Like the coded pattern of my illness." Everywhere, Giomi sees a link between language and the body.

In a powerful poem about language and power, the poet tells the story of walking with a small child who wonders at the wind, seeking the right word for it. She writes, "Oblivious now to what had enchanted him / Moments before I gave him that word. / The word that bound up senses and wonder and magic / Dismissing them into knowing." Giomi has a deft touch for expressing this awe and curiosity, and for acknowledging the ways people don't let these feelings into their daily lives. If the book has one clear message, it is to appreciate the world and those within it.

For people working through an illness, or for their caregivers, this volume offers an empathetic voice. Many will recognize their own reactions and suffering, and they will be inspired by Giomi's efforts to transcend circumstances and find wonder in her world.

Camille-Yvette Welsch ForeWord Clarion Reviews

WEATHER’S STORE: ENCOUNTERS WITH THE SACRED

Striking novel about a woman who is drawn to an enigmatic store through which she begins a spiritual journey involving beings from ancient and traditional cultures inhabiting the raw landscape One woman’s search for self in New Mexico achieves an abstract, meditative beauty.

Kirkus Review

Weather’s Store

“Weather’s Store” is an original and much recommended pick for fiction collections with a spiritual twist.

Micah Andre The Midwest Book Review

Weather’s Store

5.0 out of 5 stars What a wonderful journey! Thelma Giomi transported me to the wild and magic landscapes of Northern New Mexico

Julieann Cribari

Weather’s Store

Jessie's experiences (the searching, the frustrations, the longing for something elusive, realizations and revelations) tugged at me as I journeyed with her. I wanted to jump in my car and drive until I found Weather's Store. I want to experience that apocalyptic storm of awareness! Your writing style is poetic prose - fluid and tangible, chewy and gritty to the point of being sensual. I could see, smell, hear, and feel the wind, the rain, the moods, everything. I admire your exquisite use of language. Now I'm eager to read your poetry.

Linda Spalding Author

Weather’s Store

I really enjoyed this fantastic story about a woman coming to understand herself and her place in the world. The main character is filled with self-doubt and has lost her love for living. She feels compelled to leave everything behind her, and seeks wisdom from a very interesting and imaginative cast of characters in Northern New Mexico. The visual imagery is rich, and takes you on a fantastic journey filled with witches, a curandera , and a slew of other characters that all play a role in Jessie's transformation. It is a delightful distraction, and deals with issues most everyone can relate to.

Brian Machemehl

Weather’s Store

5 stars A Northern New Mexican Journey

Wow, what a remarkable, meditative novel. Jess, the central figure in this book explores the unique traditions, spiritural healing and ancient ceremonies of current day, northern New Mexico. Her quest to find personal meaning in her life, takes her full circle. A thought provoking read!!

Hemplhiller

Weather’s Store

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic Journey

What a wonderful and detailed journey of self realization through the spiritual, cultural and scenic wonders of New Mexico. Chapter after chapter I was transported to many of my favorite places, and the interesting and realistic characters make the story come alive. I could feel the crisp air and see the beautiful valley as I read with growing anticipation of the lessons to be learned. This book is a must read for anyone seeking self awareness or for those just seeking a great story with beautiful imagery. Well done!

Craig Machemehl

Weather’s Store

5.0 out of 5 stars What a wonderful journey! Thelma Giomi transported me to the wild and magic landscapes of Northern New Mexico!

Julieann Cribari

Weather’s Store Kindle

I really enjoyed this fantastic story about a woman coming to understand herself and her place in the world. The main character is filled with self-doubt and has lost her love for living. She feels compelled to leave everything behind her, and seeks wisdom from a very interesting and imaginative cast of characters in Northern New Mexico. The visual imagery is rich, and takes you on a fantastic journey filled with witches, a curandera , and a slew of other characters that all play a role in Jessie's transformation. It is a delightful distraction, and deals with issues most everyone can relate to.

Brian Machemehl

Shatter My Heart

Shatter My Heart is well and cleanly written overall and turns an important life experience into quite a powerful story.

Thelma Giomi’s characters are well-drawn, and even the ones who start out as jerks (Ian!) become complex and reveal more sides to them. I especially loved Nikki and Paul (I think they could have their own novel). The fields of study and interest for all these characters, and their work together, added a lot of interest to the plot line.

Giomi tells a good story, and often the descriptions of characters, and the settings where she places them, are quite lovely. 

National Federation of Press Women

Shatter My Heart

This novel is well written, well organized, well researched and simply great storytelling.

The characters were well developed, emotionally complex individually as well as how each interacted with other characters. The storytelling was amazing as the author added details about each individual through a natural progression of time. The emotions of each character are believable and remain raw and personal throughout the story instead of wrapping things up nicely and neatly. The struggles of Dr. Lauren Wimberley point to a very real problem for people dealing with an undiagnosed illness or chronic illness.

The use of the journal from, Dr. Ian Blackburn’s ancestor provides a unique approach to this character’s own personal and deeply emotional struggles. The story is captivating and even though it’s fiction, it also reads like a self-help book for patients and their families who are dealing with chronic illness.

The National Federation of Press Women New Mexico First Place for best Fiction Novel from New Mexico

The Beagle Blues

"This delightful book is fun to read. . . A keepsake anyone who knows the love of a pet will treasure."

Joan-Marie Moss Editor at CreativeOptions.com

The Beagle Blues 2

"The Beagle Blues is a charming set of verses to make you smile at your own dog, Beagle or not. Fun for all ages."

Judy Nickell Author, Dog lover

The Beagle Blues 3

"The love between a dog and the owner is forever. These verses capture the heart and soul of this special relationship."

Dorothy Borden Volunteer Albuquerque Animal Shelter